Yesterday was an emotional day. A crazy good emotional day. Having finished my finals a while back, I finally received my Diploma in Advanced Nutrition with an emphasis on Women's Health and Pediatric Nutrition.

Mouthful. But so worth it. Every class, every test, every final, every case study. Worth it, to move forward on this path God placed me on. A path of healing, of helping. A path of inspiring, encouraging. A path of being fed spiritually, mentally and because let's face it, we're foodies, physically by this community and the women I've been blessed to meet along the way.

This day was especially wonderful because this is the first time I've worn a cap a top my head. I was homeschooled in highschool and never had a proper graduation ceremony, or photos. I started touring right when I turned 18 and didn't go to college until I was engaged to Mr. Charming. Music was my life until I turned 24.

But yesterday, yesterday I got to don a cap and I want to say to all men and women who dream, it's never too late to chase your purpose.

I'm excited for what the next chapter holds for Nosh & Nurture. I'm excited to peel back more of the pages that God is writing on my story and fully live in every delicious moment. In 2015 I felt him put the word "Abundance" on my heart and He has blessed us abundantly in so many ways this year. Through new friendships, new careers and new accomplishments, my heart overflows with thankfulness. I now feel "Diligent" pressing upon my heart and mind this season and feel that 2016 will be a season of discipline. Only He knows what that truly means, but I know this path is new and the journey long to continue to grow my business and have faith that He will take it where He wants it to go.

It may be that I need to let go of other irons in the fire, ones that I feel I hold on to for security. A security that is false and comes from the world, and not of my Father. I pray that He would grant me wisdom and help me to be diligent in His plan for me, for us. And that I can put aside my fears or my own understanding of what I think is the right answer and dive in, with all of me, into what He's calling me to.

Not an easy feat by any means for us mere humans. But with Christ's strength, it's a whole other ballgame. One He's already shown us the final score for. And the great news is, the best news is, that we win. With Him, we always win. Doesn't mean it's an easy game. Doesn't mean we won't skid our knees or take a few balls sliding into home, but it does mean we will get there. And that's a promise worth holding on to.

Now that the tassel is displayed in my office, as a reminder that no matter what twists and turns we take, we can find our way back to purpose, I will pray on, and diligently work at, the next step. In helping those who need to get back to health. Who are seeking a better relationship with food. I'm beyond excited to work with others to understand our bodies, our food sources and make a game plan for them, and for their families, in nourishing their bodies, minds and souls in the best way.

I would love for you to share your stories below. It fascinates me to hear how people find their purpose. The roads they take, the detours that lead them to somewhere better. Let's chat. And to all of you who support this journey. For everyone who's read this blog, a blog that started with just 5-10 readers (my dad being one of them, my husband, another) that has now grown into the tens of thousands, I thank you. For sharing your stories with me, for inviting me into your lives and your communities. For trying my recipes, for laughing and crying along with me. Thanks for being the encouragement that got me to this milestone in my life. It's because of you that I got to wear a cap and tassel, for the very first time.

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Nosh & Nurture was born of this journey I am on to better the health of myself, my family and those around me. What started as a simple compilation of recipes has grown to a all-around lifestyle journal with ways to incorporate organic products into your home, pantry and beauty cabinet. I also include stories on pregnancy, new motherhood, travel, Proverbs 31 marriage, and spiritual health, as I am a Christian who couldn't do any of this without my Lord & Savior Jesus Christ. For more of my story you can click here.

All recipes are gluten-free and dairy-free with a lot of soy-free, grain-free, sugar-free options.

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All content herein is owned by Mandi Pimental and Nosh & Nurture. Pinning images is allowed, however, reposting blogs, recipes, photos or additional content without a link back to NoshandNurture.com is prohibited.